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Of Counsel

Paul W. Markwardt

Law, for me, is trying to address differences through reason.

My Approach

Tax issues are a puzzle – you know, logically, there are pieces that can be put together into a clear picture, but when you start out, you only see a scramble on the table. I partner with clients to look at those pieces in a pattern, and begin putting them together. It is important to recognize that other parties in a transaction see the puzzle differently, too – each one has issues that are important to them. Successful deals are made by addressing the key components for each party, and being flexible on less essential aspects.

Outside of work, I tend to my flower and vegetable gardens, as well as a small orchard with apples, pears, plums, and peaches, which the deer do a very good job of helping me maintain

A Groundbreaking Moment in My Career

Early in my career, I had an opportunity to go to New York City to practice law in a large firm. While there, I was working simply in a tax department, and had exposure to a number of different areas of tax. The size of the firm afforded me the luxury of looking at issues in a very in-depth manner, and learned a great deal while I was there. I stayed for six years, before deciding I was ready for a new experience, and came back to the Twin Cities, but I don’t think I could do what I do without the foundation I gained from digging into the issues and internalizing them.

Practice Areas

Honors & Awards

Best Lawyers in America®

Real Estate Law, 2022-2025
Tax Law, 2024-2025

MSBA North Star Lawyer

Pro Bono Service, 2015-2016

AV Preeminent

LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell, Peer review ratings

Super Lawyers®

Minnesota Law & Politics, 2003-2006

Top Lawyers in Minnesota

Minnesota Monthly, 2024

Associations & Memberships

Minnesota State Bar Association

American Bar Association

Minnesota State Horticultural Society

Board Member